Voiding Cystourethrogram (VCUG) - Benefits and Risks

To evaluate of filling and emptying of the urinary as well as for urinary reflux and possible bladder leakage.
A VCUG can help determine the cause of urinary voiding problems.
Although images are acquired with radiation, no radiation remains in a patient's body after an x-ray exam.
X-rays usually have no side effects in the typical diagnostic range for this exam.

There is always a slight chance of cancer from excessive exposure to radiation. However, the benefit of an accurate diagnosis far outweighs the risk.
There is some risk of infection from the catheter.
The amount of radiation exposure is similar to that of other x-rays.
Women should always inform their radiologist or technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.